The lasting impact of COVID-19. How the pandemic reshaped human behaviour

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on human behaviour, resulting in enduring effects on societal norms, economic structures, and psychological well-being. This investigation delves into the multifarious repercussions of the pandemic, with a particular emphasis on its enduring impacts on cognitive functioning, social dynamics, and mental health. We have identified critical behavioural patterns, including collective trauma, increased hypervigilance, and social withdrawal, that continue to influence the responses of individuals and communities, through an examination of empirical data and literature. The neurological implications of the "long COVID" phenomenon are examined in conjunction with the broader societal challenges of economic insecurity and disrupted social norms. Moreover, the paper examines the cultural and psychological obstacles that impede the resolution of mental health issues related to the pandemic and suggests practical strategies to promote recovery and resilience. These results emphasize the necessity of recognizing the interconnected psychological, social, and economic dimensions of post-pandemic recovery, and advocating for comprehensive policies and interventions to reduce long-term effects.